Which client would be the most appropriate candidate for a bladder training plan in a long-term care setting?

The most appropriate candidate for a bladder training plan in a long-term care setting is a client with urge incontinence. This type of incontinence is characterized by a strong and sudden need to urinate, often leading to involuntary loss of urine. Bladder training focuses on gradually increasing the time between voiding and helping individuals develop a schedule to urinate, thereby reducing the frequency of accidents associated with this condition.

Clients with urge incontinence can benefit significantly from such programs, as the structured approach helps them regain control over their bladder function. Techniques involved in the training may include scheduled toileting, pelvic floor exercises, and strategies for managing urges when they occur.

Other types of incontinence, such as overflow, functional, and stress, have different underlying causes and may not respond effectively to bladder training alone. For example, overflow incontinence involves the bladder not emptying completely, while functional incontinence pertains to mobility issues impacting a person's ability to reach the bathroom. Stress incontinence is linked to physical stress or pressure, such as during coughing or sneezing. Therefore, while managing incontinence in these cases is important, a bladder training plan is best suited for those experiencing urge incontinence.